ESCONDIDO — After a nationwide search, the city has chosen to hire from within, selecting Tyler Batson as its new fire chief.
Batson brings more than two decades of public safety and leadership experience, according to a city announcement.
“Tyler is an exceptional leader who embodies the values of service, integrity, and professionalism that define the Escondido Fire Department,” said City Manager Sean McGlynn.
Batson grew up in North County, where he developed a love for sports and the ocean. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Stanford University in 1993, where he played football, before joining the U.S. Navy after graduation. He served for eight years in Naval Special Warfare, assigned to SEAL Team 3.
In 2003, Batson joined the Escondido Fire Department as a firefighter-paramedic. Over the next 23 years, he rose through the ranks, serving as an engineer, captain, battalion chief, division chief and deputy fire chief. He served as interim fire chief for nearly a year before being permanently appointed.
Batson emphasized his commitment to the Escondido Fire Department’s mission statement: “to provide legendary service to our community.”
“Your fire department is well positioned to protect the community and expand pathways for greater resilience to regional threats, such as wildfire,” Batson stated. “As your fire chief, serving Escondido and leading a dedicated team of caring professionals is my greatest honor.”
